Phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of Mucuna pruriens: a review

Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC belongs to the family Fabaceae is commonly known as Velvet bean, Cowitch, Cowhage in English and Kawaanchin Hindi. M. pruriens has been of keen interest in phytochemical and Ayurvedic research due to its excellent medicinal values. M. pruriens had been evaluated and concluded as a potential medicinal herb in terms of anti cholestrolemic, antiparkinson, antidiabetic, aphrodisiac, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial. The plant exhibits wide array of phytoconstituents like alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins and phenolic compounds which are responsible for varied potent physiological and pharmacological activities. Approximately 15 species have been reported from India. This review is in a narrative format and consists of publications relevant to M. pruriens available in public domain along with their morphology, phytochemical constituents, traditional uses, medicinal values and some pharmacological activities.